STARFLOWER SEEDS

Scabiosa stellata

ORGANIC

An easily overlooked flower when in bloom, but the literal star of the garden once it has gone to seed. Grown primarily for use as a dried cut flower, and truly worthwhile for anyone that appreciates an elegant everlasting bouquet. We have spied these unique papery flowers in highly designed homes and high end designer catalogs. Shabby chic it is not.

Seeds may be sown directly into the garden in spring, but we have also started them indoors to get an earlier bloom. Gently press seeds into moist soil and just barely cover with fine vermiculite, allowing seeds to peek through as light aids in germination. Kept at cool room temperature in bright light seeds usually germinate in a week or so. Prick out seedlings with true leaves to grow on in individual 2" cells at cool temperatures in bright light. Harden off before transplanting into the garden in full sun after all danger of frost has passed. Space generously, around 8"-12" apart. Plants can grow to nearly 3' tall. Water regularly for longest stems only until flowers begin to bloom, at which point water should be withheld. Cut flower stems when seed heads have fully formed but are still a bit green with dry edges and each calyx inside has turned black. Waiting for the seed heads to dry completely may see them shatter.

Flower farmers are advised to sow these seeds successively over six weeks or more from spring into summer, but in the average garden one flush of a dozen plants will provide a good amount of floral material for drying. Pulling these plants once the flowers are cut will make room for a fall crop of Spigariello or Purple Peacock Broccoli.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.